Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells: A Delicious Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are a delightful dish that brings the taste of the ocean right to your dinner table. As someone who has always been captivated by the rich flavors of seafood, I find that these stuffed shells offer a perfect blend of creamy goodness and savory seafood. Originating from Italian cuisine, stuffed pasta shells have become a beloved comfort food in many households, and the addition of seafood elevates this dish to a whole new level.

People adore creamy seafood stuffed shells for their luxurious texture and the way they effortlessly combine the freshness of seafood with a velvety sauce. The convenience of preparing this dish makes it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With each bite, you experience a burst of flavors that are not only satisfying but also reminiscent of coastal dining experiences. Join me as we dive into this recipe that promises to impress your family and friends alike!

Ingredients:

• 20 large pasta shells
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
• 1 cup cooked crab meat, shredded
• 1/2 cup cooked scallops, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Preparing the Pasta Shells

1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, carefully add the pasta shells. Cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
2. Once cooked, drain the shells in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will also make them easier to handle later on.
3. Spread the shells out on a clean kitchen towel or a baking sheet to cool completely. This prevents them from sticking together.

Preparing the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. This will create a creamy base for your filling.
2. Add the chopped shrimp, crab meat, and scallops to the cheese mixture. Make sure to mix them in gently to avoid breaking up the seafood too much.
3. Next, add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together until well combined. The filling should be creamy and packed with flavor.

Preparing the Creamy Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the remaining minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Allow the cream to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help thicken the sauce slightly.
3. Add the marinara sauce to the cream mixture, stirring until fully combined. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Assembling the Stuffed Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your stuffed shells cook evenly and get that lovely golden top.
2. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the creamy marinara sauce on the bottom. This will prevent the shells from sticking and add flavor.
3. Using a spoon, carefully fill each pasta shell with the seafood filling. Don’t overfill them, as they need space to expand while baking. Place the filled shells seam-side up in the baking dish.
4. Once all the shells are filled and arranged in the dish, pour the remaining creamy marinara sauce over the top. Make sure to cover all the shells to keep them moist while baking.
5. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the sauce. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.

Baking the Stuffed Shells

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help trap steam and keep the shells from drying out during the initial baking phase.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to heat through.
3. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
4. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes

Conclusion:

In conclusion, these Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to impress their family or guests with a delicious and elegant dish. The combination of tender pasta shells filled with a rich, creamy seafood mixture creates a delightful experience that is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing these stuffed shells with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine to enhance the flavors. You can also experiment with variations by adding different seafood, such as crab or lobster, or even incorporating some fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra burst of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the cream for a lighter sauce or adding some sautéed vegetables to the filling for a unique twist. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how your Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells turn out and any creative variations you come up with. Cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so don’t hesitate to make it your own! Happy cooking!

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